What is Research? - Introduction to Research Methods for PhD Students

Question 1

Which characteristic is a defining feature of scientific research?

Accepted Answer

Objectivity and verifiable findings

Answer

Reliance on personal opinions

Answer

Lack of a systematic approach

Question 2

Which of the following accurately characterizes the nature of research?

Accepted Answer

Systematic, organized, and objective

Answer

Based on assumptions and personal bias

Answer

Subjective, biased, and non-replicable

Answer

Random and unsystematic

Question 3

What is the primary aim of formulating a research question?

Accepted Answer

To provide a roadmap for the research process

Answer

To offer a definitive solution to a problem

Answer

To express a personal belief or opinion

Answer

To summarize the existing body of knowledge

Question 4

Which type of research is known for using a small sample size and conducting in-depth analysis?

Accepted Answer

Qualitative research

Answer

Quantitative research

Answer

Mixed methods research

Answer

Action research

Question 5

Which characteristic is NOT a defining feature of research?

Accepted Answer

Biased

Answer

Systematic

Answer

Objective

Question 6

Which type of research aims to gain an in-depth understanding of a phenomenon from the perspective of its participants?

Accepted Answer

Qualitative research

Answer

Quantitative research

Answer

Mixed methods research

Answer

Action research

Question 7

According to the research process, what stage involves formulating the research question and defining the research objectives?

Accepted Answer

Problem identification

Answer

Data collection

Answer

Data analysis

Answer

Report writing

Question 8

In qualitative research, what technique allows the researcher to observe participants in their natural settings over an extended period?

Accepted Answer

Participant observation

Answer

Interviewing

Answer

Focus groups

Answer

Observation

Question 9

In quantitative research, what type of sampling involves selecting participants who have an equal chance of being included in the sample?

Accepted Answer

Probability sampling

Answer

Non-probability sampling

Answer

Convenience sampling

Answer

Purposive sampling

Question 10

What is a key component of research validity?

Accepted Answer

Both reliability and objectivity

Answer

Reliability

Answer

Accuracy

Answer

Objectivity

Question 11

Which type of research involves a controlled experiment and numerical data analysis?

Accepted Answer

Quantitative research

Answer

Qualitative research

Answer

Mixed methods research

Answer

Action research

Question 12

What is the first step in the research process?

Accepted Answer

Problem identification

Answer

Data analysis

Answer

Literature review

Answer

Research design

Question 13

Which of the following methods falls under qualitative research?

Accepted Answer

Interviews

Answer

Surveys

Answer

Experiments

Answer

Statistical analysis

Question 14

Which of the following is NOT a defining trait of research?

Accepted Answer

Subjective opinion

Answer

Systematic investigation

Answer

Objectivity

Answer

Empirical evidence

Question 15

What is the primary objective of descriptive research?

Accepted Answer

Describe the traits of a group or event

Answer

Uncover the underlying mechanisms of a phenomenon

Answer

Predict future events

Answer

Assess the effectiveness of an intervention

Question 16

What is the main function of research ethics committees?

Accepted Answer

To guarantee that research is carried out ethically and safeguards participant well-being

Answer

To provide funds for research projects

Answer

To disseminate research results

Answer

To assess the quality of research proposals

Question 17

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of scientific research?

Accepted Answer

Subjectivity

Answer

Empirical

Answer

Systematic

Answer

Replicable

Question 18

The primary purpose of basic research is to:

Accepted Answer

Advance knowledge

Answer

Solve specific, practical problems

Answer

Develop new products or technologies

Answer

Inform policy or decision-making

Question 19

Which of the following research methods is most suitable for exploring complex social phenomena and gaining insights into subjective experiences?

Accepted Answer

Qualitative research

Answer

Mixed methods research

Answer

Quantitative research

Answer

Experimental research

Question 20

The initial stage of the research process involves:

Accepted Answer

Identifying and formulating a research problem

Answer

Drawing conclusions

Answer

Collecting data

Answer

Formulating a hypothesis

Question 21

The 'researcher effect' refers to:

Accepted Answer

The potential influence of the researcher's presence, behaviors, or expectations on the research findings

Answer

The limitations of the research design

Answer

The bias inherent in the research question

Question 22

A key advantage of triangulation in research is:

Accepted Answer

Enhanced validity and reliability through the convergence of findings from multiple sources

Answer

Faster data collection

Answer

Elimination of confounding factors

Answer

Reduced research costs

Question 23

The concept of 'generalizability' in research refers to:

Accepted Answer

The extent to which research findings can be applied to other settings or populations

Answer

The replicability of research results

Answer

The validity of research measures

Question 24

A common criticism of quantitative research is its:

Accepted Answer

Overemphasis on numerical data and objectivity, potentially neglecting context and subjective experiences

Answer

Bias towards statistical significance

Answer

Lack of context